5 Signs and Symptons of Pinched Nerves

Experiencing a pinched nerve is no laughing matter. The spine is made of disks of bone stacked on top of each other, creating a channel to protect the spinal cord, which is a bundle of nerves connecting the lower extremities to the brain. Between those bones are disks of cartilage. They cushion the bones and protect the nerves. Sometimes, due to aging or injury, the tissue around the cord becomes inflamed. When that happens, unnatural pressure is put on the nerves, pinching them and causing an array of problems. Common sense dictates that the symptoms can disappear on their own with self-help methods and anti inflammatory medication, but any unexpected condition should be shared with your doctor for proper diagnoses and treatment.

1. Tingling feeling or numbness

Also known as the “pins and needles” feeling, tingling and numbness can be a problem. If you can't properly feel your extremities, you can't properly use them. In some cases, the numbness is experienced in the feet or hands and it can feel like they have “fallen asleep.”

2. Weakness when performing certain tasks

Often, the pinched nerve causes an inability to properly control the body parts they connect to. This can cause an inability to use hands or to walk or sit for very long. It is important to not force your body to perform, because further injury could occur.

3. Radiating pain

Because the pinched nerve causing the pain starts in the neck or back and runs through the legs or arms, the pain can radiate from the source in the spine, down the length of the nerve, through the arms or legs.

4. Pain in the neck or lower back

It is said that in most cases, spinal issues occur in the lower back or neck. They can happen due to a traumatic and sudden injury, such as whiplash or falling. Other times, they are the result of maintaining incorrect posture for too long, or simply through aging.

5. Symptoms worsen when you move

Because of the nature of the spine, the pressure on the pinched nerve due to the injury can increase if moved. That pressure could increase swelling. It is often best to rest as much as possible, and only make easy, slow movements until the pain subsides.

Remember to check with your doctor before taking any treatment or medical remedy.

If you would like to learn more about a pinched nerve in the Seguin, TX, area, visit GRMC.

Is Back Disc Surgery The Best Option for Your Herniated Disk?

Anytime a person goes under the knife, there is risk. Back disc surgery is no different. Common sense dictates that before surgery is considered, all other methods should be exhausted. If those things have had little or no effect on the ailment, then an operation could be the best option for healing.

The spine is a long chain of bones stacked on top of each other, forming a channel to protect the spinal cord. Between those bones are cartilage disks that cushion them. When a disk is injured, it can rupture, also known as a herniated disk, and cause swelling and pressure against the spinal cord nerves. The side effects can range from mild to severe, and in the worst cases can require back disc surgery. Pain and even numbness can be experienced in the back and down the legs.

The ailment is traumatic to experience, but in many cases it can be alleviated with self-help or medication, and not back disc surgery. Anti-inflammatory drugs, either over the counter or prescription, can help. Resting and only making slow, easy movements for a few days can also allow the body time to heal. Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the muscles, tendons, and structures around the injured area, removing some of the stress from that spot. Some medical professionals suggest that these methods alone can most often alleviate the issue within a few weeks.

If chronic pain continues and the noninvasive methods aren't working, it could be time to talk to your doctor about surgical options. Back disc surgery requires anesthesia. During the procedure, a surgeon will remove the herniated part of the disk, along with any pieces that are pressing against the spinal cord. In most cases, surgery is successful in removing pain and numbness and restoring function of the back and legs. Your doctor will be able to explain the risks and what is the best option for your health.

Remember to check with your doctor before taking any treatment or medical remedy.

If you would like to learn more about back disc surgery in the Seguin, Texas, area, click here.